Category Archives: NTO (National Tourist Offices)

The Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) has signed a pioneering partnership agreement with noon, the local digital champion, to launch an e-commerce program to further bolster the growth of small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in Dubai. The partnership falls under the wider Dubai Traders initiative, one of the ten transformative initiatives announced by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, as part of the Dubai Economic Agenda, D33, to empower Dubai-based SMEs to adopt new digital tools and channels so they can scale domestically and internationally. Dubai Traders will pave the way for Dubai to consolidate its position as a global hub for entrepreneurship and SME growth, supporting SMEs to build a branded online presence, digitise supply chain processes, and access e-commerce channels. The initiative is focused on forging close private sector partnerships with leading B2B, B2C, and specialised digital solution providers, to leverage their expertise and strengths to provide a suite of tools, incentives, and support mechanisms for SMEs to engage and transact with online customers. In the presence of H.E. Helal Saeed Almarri, Director General of Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism, and Mohamed Alabbar, Founder of Noon, the partnership agreement was signed by Hadi Badri, CEO of Dubai Economic Development Corporation (DEDC), and Faraz Khalid, CEO of noon. At the outset, the program will focus on the e-commerce vertical to allow SMEs to build a comprehensive e-commerce presence and thrive in the digital marketplace. Through the partnership with noon, Dubai Traders will offer an onboarding incentive package to encourage both first-time and experienced sellers to get online and benefit from enhanced visibility on …

Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Tourism has reinforced its commitment to becoming a global tourism leader by signing a Memorandum of Cooperation (MoC) with the Saudi Authority for Data and Artificial Intelligence (SDAIA). The agreement, finalized during the Global AI Summit in Riyadh, emphasizes the Kingdom’s focus on leveraging advanced technology to support its Vision 2030 objectives. Tourism, a cornerstone of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 economic diversification plan, has already surpassed expectations. In 2023, the Kingdom reached its target of welcoming 100 million annual tourists—seven years ahead of schedule. Now, Saudi Arabia is setting its sights even higher, aiming to attract 150 million tourists by the end of the decade. This rapid growth underscores the Kingdom’s commitment to developing its tourism infrastructure and embracing innovation, with AI playing a central role in this transformation. At the heart of this next phase of growth is the integration of artificial intelligence. The partnership with SDAIA is designed to embed AI across the tourism sector, enhancing operational efficiency, personalizing visitor experiences, and optimizing resource management. The MoC outlines plans to establish a Center of Excellence for AI in tourism, deploy AI-driven technologies, and create data-driven strategies to continually refine and elevate the sector’s offerings. His Excellency Anas Al-Sulai, Assistant Minister of Tourism, emphasized the transformative impact of AI on Saudi tourism. “Saudi tourism is growing at an incredible pace, and we are seeing visitors from all over the world choose Saudi Arabia as their destination. As we continue this upward trajectory, we recognize the critical role of technology in enhancing the visitor experience. From the moment travelers land at our airports to every experience they have in our country, AI will be a key …

Saudi’s national tourism brand, ‘Saudi Welcome to Arabia’ has launched its first-ever integrated consumer campaign for the Indian market – ‘Spectacular Saudi’. With a captivating blend of ancient tales and modern marvels, this campaign reveals a side of Saudi that transcends all expectations. Launching in English across the country, ‘Spectacular Saudi’ takes viewers on an immersive journey through Saudi’s golden sands, pristine waters, and endless skies, revealing the country’s iconic landscapes and experiences. The campaign visuals bring to life all that makes Saudi a spectacular destination – from the ancient mud-brick architecture of Diriyah’s At-Turaif and the pristine waters of the Red Sea to the historic streets of Al Balad in Jeddah and the majestic Nabataean tombs in Hegra, AlUla. Spotlighting Saudi’s open and welcoming culture which resonates with Indian hospitality in many ways; the campaign further cements Saudi’s close affinity with Indian culture. It invites couples, families, and people in search of iconic experiences rooted in culture and heritage, to explore the unexplored. It narrates the story of a Spectacular Saudi, one steeped in heritage, history, and modern wonders while encouraging prospective Indian travellers to embark on an unforgettable journey of discovery. Speaking on the campaign, Alhasan Aldabbagh, President of APAC Markets at Saudi Tourism Authority, said, “Indian travellers have long shown a deep appreciation for authentic and unique experiences. They are keen to explore novel destinations, cultures and gastronomy, and that is exactly what Saudi has to offer. With iconic destinations like Diriyah, Al Balad, and Hegra in AlUla – three of Saudi’s eight UNESCO World Heritage sites, they can walk through history dating back millennia, and with tailor-made packages, experience world-class culture, adventure, and cuisine. We are excited …

The Saudi tourism system and its partners from the private and public sectors attended a workshop under the patronage of HE Ahmed bin Aqeel Al-Khateeb, the Minister of Tourism and Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Saudi Tourism Authority (STA). This year’s Saudi Winter 2024-2025 program is expected to launch across seven destinations: Riyadh, Jeddah, AlUla, the Red Sea, the Eastern Province, Hail, and Madinah. The workshop reviewed achievements in the tourism sector, areas of collaboration with the private sector, and preparations and expectations for the upcoming Saudi winter season program. The program will include activities such as desert and beach camping, sports competitions, cultural and entertainment events, and shopping exhibitions. It will also focus on developing unique offers, packages, and programs in collaboration with the commercial sector to align with the expectations of domestic tourists and target regional and global markets. “The tourism sector is receiving unprecedented support from the wise leadership, with close collaboration between the Saudi tourism system and private sector partners,” the tourism minister said, noting that the number of partners in Saudi Summer has exceeded 700. “This year’s Saudi Winter program includes several global promotional campaigns targeting various international markets, raising our ambitions and expectations to achieve outstanding results and set new records while enhancing what we offer to the tourists of our dear Kingdom,” the minister said. Meanwhile, STA Chief Executive and board member Fahd Hamidaddin said, “We are proud of the achievements and results of the Saudi Summer program so far.” Hamidaddin said that, in partnership with both the private and public sectors, we aim to offer a range of high-quality products during the upcoming Saudi Winter program. He indicated that …

Shahab Shayan – Regional Director Asia Pacific and Turkey – Dubai Economy and Tourism shared that China is a key source market for Dubai and they are ready to welcome visitors from China. In his address, he welcomed the visitors to Dubai, “during the first six months we saw China recover very well, almost 84% more than 2019. It is a great recovery of the market from China to Dubai and ever since the borders opened Dubai has been China ready, to receive the Chinese market. We conducted the biggest roadshow in China in six cities and signed over 34 plus different partnerships and many fam trips as well. We want to remind them again why Dubai should be their first choice again.”

The highly anticipated 3rd edition of Qatar Travel Mart (QTM), organized by NeXTfairs, is set to take place from 25 -27 November 2024, at the Doha Exhibition and Convention Center (DECC). As the premier event showcasing global travel and tourism offerings, QTM is dedicated to highlighting Qatar as a leading hub in the industry with TravTalk ME as the media partner. This year, the event will welcome a diverse range of participants including senior executives, decision-makers, tourism experts, academics, researchers, government officials, representatives from related sectors and travel enthusiasts. This year’s edition is set to make a significant impact, with the exhibition space doubling to accommodate more international participants and enhance attendee experience. Featuring 300 hosted buyers and focusing on seven key tourism sectors—Business, Leisure, Luxury, Medical, Cultural, Sports, and Halal Tourism—QTM 2024 will unveil top travel destinations and the latest industry trends. Reflecting on QTM 2023’s success, which saw participation from 60 countries, 250 exhibitors, and nearly 10,000 visitors, “Qatar Travel Mart has been a remarkable journey that underscores our commitment to fostering innovation and connecting industry leaders in the travel and tourism sectors. QTM 2024 is set to be our most impactful event yet, driving progress and shaping the future of the industry,” said Rawad Sleem, Co-Founder & General Manager of NeXTfairs. Feedback from previous participants highlights the event’s exceptional organization and networking opportunities; “The meticulous planning has been evident, and we are pleased with our participation. We are eager to return next year, having achieved about 30 B2B meetings,” noted Suran Rabaev, Head of Department, Tourism Development Support Fund of the Kyrgyz Republic. QTM 2024 will also offer valuable investment opportunities in tourism development and feature a …

As part of their shared commitment to highlight Oman as a preferred tourist destination, Oman Air and the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism have joined forces for a special stopover promotion for passengers transiting through Muscat. Available until 30 November 2024, the offer provides a free one-night hotel stay for premium class passengers when booking a stopover in Muscat, while those traveling in Economy Class can enjoy two nights for the price of one. In addition, guests have access to exclusive discounts on tours, car hire, and other services, making it the perfect opportunity to explore Oman’s charming capital and beyond. Launched just in time for the winter season, visitors can experience Muscat at its very best, with warm weather, stunning landscapes and cultural activities promising an unforgettable retreat. Committed to promoting the natural beauty, rich heritage and friendly, genuine hospitality of its home-base, Oman Air remains dedicated to serving as a gateway for tourists to Oman, providing them with seamless connectivity, convenient flight schedules, and award-winning onboard products and services. Passengers who hold a return ticket to any destination on Oman Air’s network with a transit through Muscat can take advantage of the limited-time offer. Guests can simply fill out the online request form and make their stopover booking by 30 November 2024. It is important to note that the complimentary hotel stay includes the room only and is subject to availability. A maximum of one stopover per return ticket applies. For full terms and conditions, please contact Oman Air Holidays at holidays@omanair.com.

Visit Qatar, the main marketing and promotional arm of Qatar Tourism, has announced a new organisational structure in line with the National Development Strategy 2024-2030 and the National Tourism Strategy 2030. This new strategic structure aims to support Visit Qatar’s mission to enhance Qatar’s attractiveness to international visitors by developing diverse tourism offerings that attract these visitors. The new organisational structure includes several key job roles aimed at enhancing Visit Qatar’s capabilities in developing new tourist attractions and diversifying the country’s calendar of events. The new hires included specialists in digital product development, festivals and events, financial management and strategic project planning. Eng. Abdulaziz Ali Al Mawlawi, CEO of Visit Qatar, said: “Visit Qatar is pleased to unveil a new organisational structure that is empowered and capable of furthering our mission of promoting Qatar’s rich tourism offerings and enhancing our global presence, as we continuously attract outstanding talent in line with the National Tourism Strategy 2030. With the addition of our new team of Qatari talent and global expertise, we are better able to move towards innovation, managing major events and delivering exceptional experiences that will attract visitors from around the world.” With its extensive network of international offices, state-of-the-art digital platforms and strategic marketing campaigns, Visit Qatar is expanding its reach globally. As part of its strategic vision, Visit Qatar is committed to diversifying the country’s offerings by organizing an event calendar that includes a wide range of experiences, festivals and tournaments designed to attract visitors from all over the world to an exceptional, enjoyable and enjoyable experience in Qatar.

Her Highness Princess Haifa Mohammed Al Saud, Vice Minister of Tourism, has initiated the largest programmatic and institutional accreditation initiative. This effort is designed to enhance the quality of tourism education and training, aiming to improve the efficiency of education and training outcomes in the Kingdom’s tourism sector and better connect them to the labor market. HH emphasized that since its inception, the Ministry has been dedicated to enhancing the educational and training programs and aligning their outcomes with the needs of the current and future labor market. She noted that the launch of this substantial initiative marks a critical step towards ensuring the success of these efforts. HH also detailed that this initiative, the largest worldwide, involves assessing the quality of 102 national tourism education and training programs throughout 2024. This assessment will be conducted in partnership with 3 organizations to measure the quality of tourism programs: UN Tourism, the Education and Training Evaluation Commission, and the Technical and Vocational Training Corporation. The goal of the initiative is to enable tourism education and training institutions supported by the Ministry of Tourism to earn both international and local accreditations and professional certificates. The initiative aims to accomplish various short- and long-term objectives. These include 31 tourism education and training programs and institutions receiving national and international accreditation by 2024, 200 trainers and educational and administrative staff earning professional certificates to deliver new tourism programs developed by the Ministry in collaboration with the United Nations World Tourism Organization for the year 2024, and 37 Ministry of Tourism employees obtaining professional certification to manage tourism programs. Additionally, by 2025, the initiative targets 27 tourism education and training programs and institutions to achieve …

This year’s Jeddah Season drew in over 1.7 million visitors from within and outside the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia over 52 days. It featured a wide array of entertainment activities, solidifying Jeddah’s status as a top tourist destination, offering a plethora of interactive experiences and action-packed games. The Warner Bros. Discovery: Celebrate Every Story area was especially popular among families. The season featured diverse, unique attractions, with the City Walk area standing out as a top highlight.  It offered an immersive experience that brought beloved stories and iconic characters to life. Furthermore, the interactive Imagine Monet exhibition allowed visitors to explore 200 of the most renowned paintings by the French artist Claude Monet. Prince Majid Park added a new dimension to the season by offering various events, live shows, shopping experiences and workshops, enriching the visitors’ overall experience. In a unique historical and cultural experience, the season offered visitors the chance to delve into the Jeddah Historic District, a UNESCO World Heritage site that has preserved elements of ancient social life spanning over 400 years, enriching their understanding of the city’s rich heritage. The season’s events extended beyond cultural and entertainment offerings, incorporating thrilling sports tournaments like the Motosurf International Cup and the Summer Speed Festival at the Jeddah Corniche. Attendees were treated to thrilling sports encounters and spectacular shows, creating unforgettable moments for all. The season’s success reflects a forward-looking vision to elevate Jeddah’s status as a global cultural and tourism destination. It also aligns with the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 goals, which aim to cultivate a sustainable entertainment sector that enhances the quality of life for citizens and residents and serves as an economic driver for economic diversification and …